2. COUNSELING AND INFORMED CONSENT

This chapter covers the fundamentals of presenting patients with their full range of pregnancy options, including parenting, abortion and adoption, as well as supporting them through the decision-making process. It also looks specifically at communication techniques, informed consent, and providing assistance during a uterine aspiration.

CHAPTER LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Following completion of this chapter, you should be able to:

Give patients pregnancy test results in a non-judgmental manner in a private setting

Describe the full range of pregnancy options

Guide and support patients through a patient-centered decision making process

Address issues of ambivalence, if needed, and ensure that patient’s decisions are informed, voluntary and free of coercion

Provide information to compare medication and aspiration abortion

Use language that is mindful, sensitive and unassuming during counseling and during an aspiration procedure